Today marks the one-year anniversary of the passing of Assistant Chief Mack Mays Jr.

As we pause for a moment of silence, we honor his memory, his leadership, and the unwavering dedication he showed in serving our community. His impact on the Monelison Volunteer Fire Department and those who had the privilege of serving alongside him will never be forgotten.

In Chief Mays’ memory, Firefighter Luther ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Monelison Fire Department announces its 2026 Summer Coloring Contest.

The contest is open to individuals aged 18 or younger. Participants will be judged in separate age groups: 0-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-16, and 17-18. Winners from each group will receive an awesome prize.

Entries will be accepted between July 1, 2026, and August 1, 2026. Winners will be notified by August 15, 2026.

To ... (Full Story & Photos)

On Saturday, June 20th, the Amherst County Swift Water Team, made up of members from Monelison Fire, Amherst Fire, Amherst Fire & EMS, along with the Lynchburg Fire Department, conducted water operations. Crews launched from Riveredge Park in Amherst County early in the morning to prepare for the start of the 41st Batteau Festival. Their presence provided safety on the water, supported the event, ... (Full Story & Photos)

At approximately 11:15 a.m., Amherst County Dispatch received an SOS signal from a satellite device reporting that an individual was experiencing weakness. Attempts to contact the person were unsuccessful. Amherst Fire & EMS, along with Pedlar Fire, were dispatched to the Blue Ridge Parkway near the Punchbowl Overlook. Recognizing the challenging terrain and the nature of the incident, additional ... (Full Story & Photos)

Members of the Monelison Volunteer Fire Department, Amherst Fire Department, and Amherst County Fire & EMS recently completed a Swiftwater Certification Course and joined the Amherst County Swiftwater Team for a training session. Following recent heavy rainfall, the James River provided suitable conditions for the event.

The training was held at Monacan Park, where the team began with boat operations ... (Full Story & Photos)

Over the past two days, several members from Amherst County emergency response agencies attended the USNWC Swiftwater and Flood Rescue Technician course. This training is designed for rescue professionals aiming to become technicians in swiftwater and flood rescue operations.

The course took place in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Monelison firefighter Jeff Hilty ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Monelison Volunteer Fire Department responded to an unusually high number of emergency calls over the past three days. The activity began on Friday, May 15 at 10:41 am with a motor vehicle accident and continued through the weekend, concluding Sunday, May 17 at 11:00 pm. In total, personnel handled 15 calls, including motor vehicle accidents, lift assistance, a structure fire, and several fire ... (Full Story & Photos)

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service concluded in Emmitsburg, Maryland with the Roll of Honor for the 97 firefighters who lost their lives in 2025.

The service provided an opportunity for reflection and tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Deputy Chief Miller, Firefighter Hilty, and Honorary Member Campbell attended the ceremony to recognize Assistant ... (Full Story & Photos)